There are nights I lay awake worried about statements arriving in the mail and the quiet tally of balances on my phone Many people in the United States feel this way They look for a clear plan they can trust This section opens with simple practical steps always make at least the minimum on every credit card Then direct extra payments to one balance to speed payoff and cut interest costs Paying as soon as a bill posts lowers interest accrual Consolidation and balance transfers can combine higher-rate balances into a lower-rate option But weigh promo periods and fees carefully Behavioral moves matter use cash for discretionary buys disable one click checkout and add a hour pause before purchases If you fall behind contact your card company early or seek reputable credit counseling for a structured plan https youtu be R xSrQjrKqM feature shared Key Takeaways Always pay at least the minimum on every card then target one balance with extra payments Pay bills when statements post to reduce daily interest accrual Consider consolidation or balance transfers after comparing fees and promo terms Use behavioral tactics cash checkout controls and cooling off periods to curb overspending Contact creditors early for rate or schedule adjustments use non profit counseling if needed Start Here Your plan to pay debt faster at the present time A simple written inventory of balances APRs and minimums gives you a map for faster payoff Start by listing every unsecured balance its APR and the minimum payment... Login to read full